Security has been stepped up near Delhi borders.
Multiple barricades and barbed wire fences have been put up at the protest sites near Delhi's borders with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh as farmers continue their sit-in against the centre's three contentious agricultural laws. Digging of trenches and nails on roads, and temporary internet suspension are part of "attacks" being organised by the government, protesters' umbrella body the Samyukt Kisan Morcha said today.
Protesters at Singhu near Delhi-Haryana border have alleged water shortage amid heightened security, which they define as "extreme" measures. The agitation-hit area has been divided into five zones where no vehicle is allowed.
Water tankers are not able to reach the sites of demonstration, farmers have claimed. Protesters, who have been camping on the outskirts of the national capital since late November, say they don't have water to prepare the traditional community meals - Langars - and even for everyday chores like bathing and cleaning. Frequent power cuts have added to their difficulties, they say.
"There's no problem if opposition is coming to support us but it should not be politicised. We can't do anything if leaders come. The traffic movement has not been blocked by farmers, it is because of the police barricading," Bharatiya Kisan Union's Rakesh Tikait told news agency ANI today, referring to the support offered by politicians in the last few days.
